Blue-tailed Damselfly
- Ischnura elegans

The dark body and blue tip is distinctive. However a number of colour forms exist, where the abdomen can be pink (rufescens), lilac (violacea) or green (infuscans) when the damselfly first emerges, slowly turning to the blue of most mature adults.

Similar Species

Similar to the Scarce Blue-tailed Damselfly, however that species has not been recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland. It is also similar to the male Red-eyed Damselfly, but which is larger and has reddish brown eyes.

Identification difficulty

Habitat

Anywhere there is a pond, lake or slow-moving water course.

When to see it

Late May to early September.

Life History

As it is thought to be able to withstand mild pollution and will often tolerate habitats not favoured by other species. It is also sometimes found away from water.

UK Status

This is a very common species which can be found almost anywhere in Britain.

VC55 Status

The species is the most widely distributed in Leicestershire & Rutland, and has always been common in our area.

Further Information

This species is the most widely distributed in VC 55, being recorded from more 2 km Ordnance Survey grid squares than any other species up to the end of 2004. It is common along all rivers and canals as well as most still waters and, as it is thought to be able to withstand mild pollution, will often tolerate habitats not favoured by other species. Historic records show that the Blue-tailed Damselfly has always been a common species in VC 55.